Cristiano Ronaldo has broken his silence following the departure of Stefano Pioli from Al Nassr, sending a heartfelt message to the outgoing coach amid rising doubts over his potential replacements.
Ronaldo pays tribute to Stefano Pioli
In the wake of Al Nassr’s official statement confirming Pioli’s exit, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner took to social media to express his appreciation.
“Grazie per tutto!” — which translates to Thank you for everything! — was Ronaldo’s short but powerful message to the Italian tactician.
The 56-year-old Pioli joined the Saudi Pro League side in September 2024 after parting ways with AC Milan, where he secured the Scudetto in 2022. Despite his rich experience spanning over two decades, his stint at Al Nassr was marred by high expectations and moderate success, as the club slipped from second to third in the 2024/25 league campaign.
Discontent grows over potential replacements
While Cristiano Ronaldo’s farewell to Pioli was dignified, behind the scenes, tension is brewing over the candidates being considered to replace him. The most controversial name linked to the role is Belgian coach Marc Brys, currently at the helm of the Cameroon national team.
Despite coaching in Saudi Arabia between 2013 and 2015, Brys hasn’t lifted a major trophy in nearly 20 years — his last success being the Belgian Cup with Germinal Beerschot in 2005. His appointment to the Cameroon role was mired in controversy, with football legend and federation president Samuel Eto’o publicly clashing with him and even attempting an unsuccessful suspension.
Eto’o was caught on video confronting Brys:
“I am the president, sir. You want to work with us… Right? If you are a coach it’s because I appointed you, you are not a coach because someone else appointed you... Sit down now, we’re going to work. Cut this s* out.”**
Given the lack of silverware and diplomatic baggage, Brys’ name has raised eyebrows — including, reportedly, from Cristiano Ronaldo himself.
Familiar faces also in the frame
Another contender is Luciano Spalletti, fresh off his stint as Italy's head coach. Though he led Napoli to a Serie A title just one season after Pioli, Spalletti’s exit from the national side has not been smooth. After a devastating 3-0 loss to Norway, he confirmed his likely dismissal and walked out of a press conference when questioned about feeling betrayed by the federation.
Meanwhile, Sergio Conceicao has emerged as a stronger candidate. The former Porto boss, who has enjoyed multiple title-winning campaigns and previously crossed paths with Ronaldo on international duty, is seen as a more credible and ambitious option. However, his fiery temperament has also raised concerns — his recent fallout with Milan captain Davide Calabria, which ended with the player leaving the club, highlights his volatile nature.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Future at Al Nassr Hinges on Stability
With Al Nassr now entering a crucial transition phase, the choice of head coach could shape not just the club’s fortunes, but also Cristiano Ronaldo’s future in Saudi football. While his public message to Pioli was filled with respect, the uncertainty surrounding replacements sends a clear signal: Cristiano Ronaldo wants competence and clarity at the helm.